The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Jesse G. Wood (ASN: 36361081), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 19 February 1945. Learning of the imprisonment of five Filipino women and children in an enemy pillbox under attack, Sergeant Wood moved forward under intense hostile fire until he was able to see his objective. He discovered that the Japanese were screening themselves behind the women and children. To draw them out he deliberately exposed himself to enemy observation. As he did so the enemy moved into the open and fired on him, providing Sergeant Wood with the opportunity he sought. He returned the fire without endangering the civilians, and routed and killed the enemy. Sergeant Wood completed this heroic rescue by remaining in his exposed position, delivering covering fire, while the women and children moved safely to our lines. Not only did he save the helpless civilians, but his gallant achievement contributed directly to the successful capture of his unit’s objective. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.